Shashi Tharoor Invited to Putin State Banquet; Absence of Rahul Gandhi and Kharge Fuels Debate on Protocol and Political Messaging
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor received an official invitation to the state banquet being hosted at Rashtrapati Bhavan in honour of Russian President Vladimir Putin — an event that has drawn considerable political and media attention.
Confirming the development, Tharoor said he “will definitely attend,” emphasising the importance of the occasion for India’s long-standing strategic ties with Russia.
What has intensified political discussion is the absence of invitations to two top Congress leaders — Mallikarjun Kharge (Congress president) and Rahul Gandhi (Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha).
Their exclusion has revived debate around diplomatic protocol and the treatment of opposition leaders during high-level international visits.
Rahul Gandhi has repeatedly accused the government of deliberately sidelining the Opposition, alleging that such omissions break from previous conventions where foreign dignitaries traditionally met representatives across the political spectrum.
The current controversy adds another chapter to that ongoing narrative.
Meanwhile, several political observers have noted that Tharoor’s inclusion reflects his reputation for diplomatic finesse, polished conduct and international stature.
Known for his articulate engagement on global platforms and his prior experience at the United Nations, Tharoor is often regarded as someone who represents India effectively in sensitive geopolitical contexts.
It is widely acknowledged that his command over protocol and ability to navigate complex diplomatic atmospheres make him a suitable choice for high-profile engagements.
Analysts also point out that the ruling BJP government has, in the past, entrusted Tharoor with delegations to multiple countries to articulate India’s position on terrorism and cross-border threats — particularly highlighting the challenges posed by Pakistan-sponsored extremism.
His selection then, and his invitation now, are seen as recognition of his capability to communicate India’s case on the world stage with credibility and composure.
The absence of Rahul Gandhi and Kharge is being interpreted by commentators as a politically charged message, with some suggesting the government may have preferred representation aligned to the decorum expected at such international events.
While no official explanation has been issued, the move undoubtedly fuels conversation about whether India’s diplomatic hospitality is becoming a tool for political signalling.
Nonetheless, Tharoor’s presence ensures that the Congress party will not be entirely unrepresented at the banquet — even as its top leadership remains off the guest list.
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